Finish the tail surfaces – Great Planes Ryan STA Electric Kit - GPMA0165 User Manual

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9. We have simplified the task of cutting hinge slots with

the introduction of the Great Planes Slot Machine

. This

simple electric tool cuts a perfect width slot for use with
CA hinges.

10. To cut the hinge slot, first locate the center line of the

LE and TE edges using the Great Planes Precision Hinge
Marking Tool (GPMR4005). Then place the blades of the
Slot Machine onto the wood where you want the slot. Lightly
press the teeth into the wood. When you are satisfied with
the location, press the button on the handle and the blades
will cut easily into the balsa wood.

11. Cut the 1/2" x 1" [12.7mm x 25.4mm] hinges for the

elevator and rudder from the supplied 2" x 9" [50.8mm x
228.6mm] hinge material, then snip off the corners as
shown on the fuselage plan. Temporarily join the elevators
to the stab and the rudder to the fin with the hinges,
adjusting any hinge slots if necessary so they all align. Do
not glue in the hinges until you are instructed to do so
after the airplane is covered.

1. Refer to the

Expert Tip that follows and shape the

leading edge of the elevators and rudder to a “V” as shown
on the plan.

A. Place the leading edge of one of the elevators on your
work surface and use your pen to mark a “bevel to” line on
both sides, about 3/32" [2.4mm] high.

Note: You will probably have to adjust the height of the
elevator with card stock so your “bevel to” line is not
too high.

HOW TO BEVEL THE LEADING EDGES

Finish the Tail Surfaces

Cut the hinge slots in the elevators, stabilizer, fin and
rudder using a Hobby Knife with a #11 blade. Begin by
carefully cutting a very shallow slit at the hinge location to
accurately establish the hinge slot. Make three or four
more cuts, going a little deeper each time. As you cut,
slide the knife from side to side until the slot has reached
the proper depth and width for the hinge.

AND #11 BLADE

WITH HOBBY KNIFE

CUT HINGE SLOT

IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A SLOT MACHINE

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